Mike, Author at Everything Dinosaur Blog

18 09, 2024

New Rebor Prehistoric Animal Models Feature in Conference Slideshow

By Mike|2024-09-25T15:33:46+01:00September 18th, 2024|Rebor Models and Figures|0 Comments

A slideshow featuring Rebor prehistoric animal models will be used at a forthcoming conference. The annual TetZooCon will take place at the end of the month and once again, Everything Dinosaur is a sponsor of this amazing event. This exciting conference is in its eleventh year. TetZooCon is a yearly meeting themed around the world-famous blog Tetrapod Zoology. There will be talks, panel discussions, book signings, workshops and presentations. There is so much to cram into the evening of Friday 27th September and that weekend.

Rebor prehistoric animal models highlighted at the forthcoming TetZooCon 2024.

Rebor prehistoric animal models including the Rebor Zombie T. rex highlighted at the forthcoming TetZooCon 2024. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Rebor Prehistoric Animal Models at TetZooCon

The conference covers a huge variety of topics. Biology, cryptozoology, conservation, palaeontology and scientific illustration will all be prominent. Rebor models too, will be making an appearance. We have donated lots of goodies to be given as prizes throughout the conference and a slideshow has been prepared that highlights some of the figures that we sell.

Rebor prehistoric animal models highlighted at the next TetZooCon event.

The Rebor Dire Wolf figure “Low Roar” will feature in a special TetZooCon slide show. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of Rebor models and figures available from Everything Dinosaur: Rebor Models and Figures.

The venue is the excellent Bush House, King’s College, London and our very best wishes to the hard-working organisers and to all those who are lucky enough to attend.

Rebor prehistoric animal models including the Halvallagata Dire Wolf figure are featured at a conference.

Delegates at TetZooCon 2024 will be able to view the Rebor Dire Wolf figure “Havallagata”. It is one of the prizes donated by team members. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Good luck to everyone in the quiz and we have every confidence that once again this event will be a roaring success!

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models.

17 09, 2024

An Unusual Discovery – A September Tadpole

By Mike|2024-09-18T13:07:57+01:00September 17th, 2024|Animal News Stories|0 Comments

Over the weekend, we took advantage of the warm autumn weather to clean and tidy up the office pond. To our surprise we discovered a single tadpole. This September tadpole had not metamorphosed into a frog but had remained in its juvenile state. We have seen this phenomenon before, and there could be several reasons for this particular tadpole not developing. For example, it could have a genetic abnormality that prevents this tadpole from changing. It could remain a tadpole for the remainder of its life.

A tadpole spotted in the office pond on a warm September day (2024). It can be seen in the bottom left corner of the image. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur,

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A September Tadpole

The cool and wet weather in June could have prevented the tadpole from developing properly. Tadpoles feed on algae, perhaps there was a shortage of food or too much competition and this tadpole, plus others we did not spot, have had their growth stunted.

We certainly had a lot of frogspawn in the office pond this year. In total we counted thirteen batches of spawn. The frogspawn is being laid earlier in the year. For example, this year’s spawning started in the middle of February.

To read our blog post about the first frogspawn spotted this year: Frogspawn Spotted in the Office Pond (2024).

Whilst the vast majority of the tadpoles turn into frogs in a single year, some seem to take longer. This might be a strategy to ensure more of the progeny survive. For example, the conditions in the summer might not be ideal for the survival of the froglets as they emerge from the water. So, if some of the tadpoles remain in the pond until the following spring, the conditions might have improved thus permitting them a greater chance of survival.

September tadpole spotted in the office pond.

At least one tadpole from the office pond is likely to overwinter. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

We have taken out some of the weed but left plenty of oxygenating plants. We have tidied up the waterlilies too.

Waterlilies belong to the family Nymphaeaceae. These plants have a fossil record dating back to the Cretaceous.

We shall keep checking on the tadpole and the other pond life over the autumn and winter months.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Gifts.

16 09, 2024

New Haolonggood Xenoceratops Figures

By Mike|2024-09-16T19:02:33+01:00September 16th, 2024|Haolonggood Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

It has been confirmed that Haolonggood will add another ceratopsian to their exciting 1:35 scale model range. A pair of Xenoceratops figures are to be introduced. The Haolonggood Xenoceratops models are called Yan Lin and Yan Shun. These figures will essentially be the same sculpt but each will have a different colour scheme.

The new for 2024 Haolonggood Xenoceratops models. Yan Lin (left) and Yan Shun (right). These models are approximately 1:35 scale.

Haolonggood Xenoceratops Models

Back in the spring, Haolonggood announced that they intended to introduce fifteen new figures. Five of these new figures were horned dinosaurs. The pair of Xenoceratops figures are the latest ceratopsians to be introduced following the addition of a Chasmosaurus pair. Unlike Chasmosaurus, Xenoceratops (X. foremostensis) is a member of the Centrosaurinae. It was named and described in 2012 (Ryan, Evans and Shepherd).

To read Everything Dinosaur’s earlier blog post about the fifteen new Haolonggood figures: Fifteen New Dinosaur Models Planned by Haolonggood.

Xenoceratops translates as “alien horned face”. This dinosaur was not named because the ornamentation sported on the neck frill made this dinosaur look like an alien. The explanation is somewhat more mundane. Its fossils come from the Foremost Formation and, dinosaur fossils are sparse. It is the only horned dinosaur described to date from remains associated with the Foremost Formation.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s blog post from 2012 about the discovery of Xenoceratops: Xenoceratops – Alien Headgear on a Dinosaur.

Haolonggood Yan Shun Xenoceratops model.

The Haolonggood Xenoceratops Yan Shun model photographed in the landscape. This is a 1:35 scale figure.

To view the range of Haolonggood prehistoric animal figures in stock at Everything Dinosaur: Haolonggood Dinosaur Models.

Spectacular Dinosaur Models

Mike from Everything Dinosaur welcomed these new figures and commented:

“These are spectacular horned dinosaur models. Ceratopsians are popular with collectors, and we think that these two Xenoceratops models are going to be a big success. Moreover, we hope to have them in stock soon.”

Haolonggood Xenoceratops (Yang Lin figure).

The beautiful Haolonggood Xenoceratops (Yang Lin), it has a blue and yellow head shield.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

15 09, 2024

The Joy of Dinosaur Soft Toys

By Mike|2024-09-24T12:39:56+01:00September 15th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur Products|0 Comments

Dinosaur soft toys bring a world of fun and learning to children of all ages. These beautiful and adorable plush creatures spark imaginations. Moreover, they can also foster an appreciation for nature. Prehistoric plush can lead to the child developing a fascination for dinosaurs and prehistoric life. With their vibrant colours and child-friendly designs, dinosaur soft toys can capture the hearts of budding young palaeontologists. Prehistoric plush is a perfect companion for playtime and bedtime.

A pterosaur soft toy (foreground) with a Stegosaurus soft toy (background). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The Educational Value of Dinosaur Soft Toys

One of the key virtues of these prehistoric animal plush toys is their educational value. Children can explore the amazing world of dinosaurs while cuddling their favourite Velociraptor or Tyrannosaurus rex soft toy. Guardians and parents can use these toys to introduce topics like evolution, nature and palaeontology. Playtime is turned into an educational experience. Best of all, prehistoric plush does not bite!

We remember the wonderful “Achievosaurs” and how dinosaur soft toys were used in schools to help reinforce positive behaviours. Everything Dinosaur was delighted to support this project.

Some of the original “Achievosaurs”. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Sadly, many of the first soft toys we stocked are now out of production. Just like the non-avian dinosaurs, they are extinct.

To view the range of prehistoric plush available from Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur Soft Toys.

Versatile Prehistoric Plush

Moreover, dinosaur soft toys are incredibly versatile. They fit seamlessly into various play scenarios, from epic prehistoric animal adventures to cosy bedtime stories. Their soft material provides comfort, making them ideal for soothing fears and promoting emotional security.

In a world where screens and technology dominate, dinosaur soft toys encourage creativity and imaginative play. They invite children to create their own prehistoric worlds, fostering social skills as they engage in group play. Embrace the charm of dinosaur soft toys and watch your child’s imagination soar!

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Gifts.

14 09, 2024

My Favourite Picture of Eryops is Featured

By Mike|2024-09-15T19:13:04+01:00September 14th, 2024|Photos/Pictures of Fossils|0 Comments

A quick nostalgic dive into the past. One of my favourite prehistoric animals from childhood was the giant temnospondyl Eryops megacephalus. Its fossils are known from the Texas Red Beds from the Lonestar state. With its wide, robust body and huge head, it sparked my imagination and curiosity. Of the many pictures of prehistoric animals in my childhood books, Eryops stood out. It resembles a cross between a crocodile and a frog.

This may not be the most accurate reconstruction of this Permian predator. For example, the head looks a little too small to me. In addition, the hind limbs were perhaps more robust. However, having five toes on each hind foot, that is accurate.

A book from my childhood showing a life reconstruction of Eryops megacephalus. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Eryops megacephalus Illustrated

The Eryops illustration comes from a book entitled “Dinosaurs”. It was part of the Ladybird series. The illustration is one of several that provide a preamble explaining life in the Palaeozoic before the Dinosauria are introduced.

The ladybird book of dinosaurs inspiring a fascination for dinosaur models.

The Ladybird book of dinosaurs. One of the first dinosaur books owned by a team member. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Just like the Eryops illustration, many of the dinosaur drawings are now outdated. Moreover, much of the information featured in this book is now inaccurate. However, these books were extremely popular and helped fuel a lifelong passion for science and learning about the past.

To read an earlier post featuring this Ladybird book: Dinosaur Books from Childhood.

Eryops megacephalus skeleton on display.

An exhibit featuring a reconstruction of the skeleton of the giant Permian temnospondyl Eryops. This skeleton cast is on display at the London Natural History Museum. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

I suppose Eryops will always be one of my favourite prehistoric animals.

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

13 09, 2024

Being Unique and Some Brilliant Bloopers!

By Mike|2024-09-13T15:18:52+01:00September 13th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur videos|0 Comments

Sometimes things do not always go to plan. At Everything Dinosaur, we work really hard to make sure our customers are looked after. For example, we have just taken part in some additional training. We were asked to participate in a testimonial video. The filming was fun, but we did make a few mistakes. So, we asked for the outtakes and we created a short YouTube video highlighting our errors. It is a sort of bloopers reel. Hope you like it!

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur supported by Digital Cheshire

Authentic Everything Dinosaur

In this short video, (it lasts around a minute) we fluff our lines, lose our train of thought and get confused over the name of the training provider. By the way, I think we mention that we sell dinosaurs… all over the world. We have posted our bloopers reel on social media as well as the Everything Dinosaur YouTube channel.

Our YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

However, this short video does demonstrate that Everything Dinosaur is run by two, genuine people. We are not a faceless corporation. We believe that our customers do not purchase from Everything Dinosaur, that instead, they buy from Mike and Sue. People do business with people and Sue and I are happy to help and assist where we can, even though sometimes, we don’t always get everything right, not first time anyway!

To view an earlier blog post that includes the completed and edited video testimonial: A Video About Training Undertaken.

Let’s hope our little bloopers reel puts a smile on people’s faces. We are genuine, we are authentic. Many customers have got to know us extremely well over the last twenty years or so. Being genuine and authentic in ecommerce fosters trust and loyalty, creating meaningful connections with customers that drive long-term business success.

Visit the award-winning company website: Dinosaur Toys.

12 09, 2024

A New, Beautiful Dinosaur Book by Gregory S. Paul

By Mike|2024-09-13T09:40:48+01:00September 12th, 2024|Book Reviews|0 Comments

The third edition of the remarkable book “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” is now available. This is a fully updated and revised edition of this highly acclaimed book series. Author Gregory S. Paul has once again excelled. The renowned dinosaur expert has produced a most informative and beautifully illustrated dinosaur book. Over a hundred new dinosaur taxa have been added to this, the third edition. It is an updated account of the amazing Dinosauria, building on the excellent second edition that was printed in 2016.

The front cover of “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs”, the third edition. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To read Everything Dinosaur’s review of the second edition (2016): “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” – Second Edition.

“The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs”

Following a brief introduction, the author provides a history of dinosaur research. Their origins and evolution are discussed before an extensive assessment of dinosaur biology and how behaviours can be inferred from the fossil record. The dinosaur/bird link is explored, and a small section of this new book examines the consequences if the non-avian dinosaurs had survived the K-Pg extinction event.

Following this comprehensive overview of dinosaur research, the author sets out the taxonomy of the Dinosauria and provides details of species. Fittingly, basal dinosaurs are covered first. Theropods and the sauropodomorphs are featured next before the closing chapter tackles the Ornithischia. This excellent book features beautiful life reconstructions. For example, Euoplocephalus (see image below).

A friendly-looking armoured dinosaur (Euoplocephalus) drawn by Gregory S. Paul. One of numerous full-colour illustrations in the book. Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul.

Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul

Additional Reading and an Overview of Formations

Gregory S. Paul kindly provides a helpful list of additional reading. In addition, an index to dinosaur taxa is provided along with an alphabetical index of formations where dinosaur fossils have been discovered. Throughout this book the author has included stunning skeleton reconstructions, often accompanied by life drawings. He explains what fossils have been found and highlights the palaeoenvironment for each listing. Close-up drawings of parts of the skeleton such as the skull are also included.

The book contains beautiful skeletal reconstructions and drawings of dinosaurs. Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul.

Picture credit: Gregory S. Paul

Book Details

Title: “The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs” by Gregory S. Paul

Publisher: Princeton University Press

ISBN: 9780691231570

More details and book orders can be made here: Princeton University Press.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“This is a superb dinosaur book. It is a must have for anyone with an interest in dinosaurs.”

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models.

11 09, 2024

The Importance of Being Authentic – The Power of Being Yourselves

By Mike|2024-09-12T12:47:36+01:00September 11th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

With on-line sales, customers can feel removed from the sellers. In this fast-paced digital world, placing an order on a website is extremely convenient, but do you know the people behind the dotcom address? At Everything Dinosaur, we believe in being open and honest with our customers. We have always encouraged dialogue, and our customers have got to know us (Sue and Mike).

For us, it’s about being authentic and true to ourselves. Authenticity is essential in the on-line world. When a person allows their true self to shine through, they create a genuine connection with customers. Recently, we were asked to make a video about some training that had been undertaken. We were happy to oblige. However, inevitably we made some mistakes during the filming process. Rather than banish these errors to the editing suite dump bin forever, Sue and I thought we would share them with you.

We will post up on our blog and our social media platforms a bloopers reel!

Sue and Mike from Everything Dinosaur will feature in a short bloopers reel on their social media pages. The video will highlight some of the outtakes from a recent video shoot. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Authentic Everything Dinosaur

People appreciate transparency and are drawn to relatable personalities. Sharing moments of imperfection, like bloopers from filming, showcases your human side and makes your brand more approachable. Being yourself fosters loyalty and trust. Customers like to feel they are dealing with real people, rather than a faceless business entity. Building connections leads to stronger relationships with customers.

To read our earlier blog post about the training and to see the video discussing the training courses: Everything Dinosaur Customer Service and Training.

Additionally, showcasing humour and authenticity can differentiate the company’s brand in a crowded marketplace.

Our bloopers reel will be posted up on Friday (13th September), we are not superstitious, we have no worries about posting on this date.

So, when you embrace your quirks and share those light-hearted moments, you not only entertain but also strengthen your business identity.

Remember, it’s the genuine connections that often turn customers into lifelong supporters.

Look out for our bloopers reel this Friday!

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

10 09, 2024

Adding a Transparent Base to the Amazing Rebor Zombie T. rex Figure

By Mike|2024-09-10T16:03:54+01:00September 10th, 2024|Rebor Models and Figures|0 Comments

The innovative Rebor Zombie T. rex figure has proved to be popular with collectors. This imaginative dinosaur model has some incredible detail, and it has been skilfully painted. The design team at Rebor wanted to make the body proportions of this figure reflect the theropod fossil record. To this end, the feet are not oversized. A transparent support stand is provided to prevent this beautiful figure from toppling over. The models we have tested stand fine on a hard, flat surface. However, we do recommend the use of the support stand.

Rebor Zombie T. rex in the plain colouration showing the display stand.

The Rebor Zombie T. rex in the plain colouration with the transparent support stand in place. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

We have received enquiries about displaying the figure. There are the Rebor diorama bases “Summer Kisses” and “Winter Tears”, these bases could be considered. Unfortunately, we have not had the opportunity to see how the model looks on these bases.

To view the Rebor range of figures and models: Rebor Models and Figures.

Moreover, we have been experimenting with the use of clear, plastic packaging that we could reuse to make a base for the figure.

Using a Transparent Base with the Rebor Zombie T. rex

If you prefer to display this figure without the support rod, then an alternative might be to create your own base. We have used some clear plastic material that was due to go into our recycling bin. The transparent plastic would be difficult to spot and virtually invisible.

Using plastic packaging for a dinosaur base.

Transparent plastic packaging can be reused to provide a base for a dinosaur model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

We could make a base for each foot. However, we opted to use a single piece of plastic and place both feet on it. Firstly, we had to make sure that the piece of plastic we had chosen was big enough. If you are going to make a dinosaur display base, we recommend you make sure it is the correct size.

Rebor Zombie T. rex model and proposed base.

Check the size of the proposed base against the model to ensure that it is big enough to fit both feet. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The correct size of display base was cut out. For simplicity we chose a rectangle shape that permitted both feet to be placed on it with plenty of room to spare. Other shapes could be tried but we decided to stick with the rectangle as this provided us with a large base for our model. The bigger the base the greater the stability. We took care not to leave any sharp edges on the plastic.

Rebor Zombie T. rex model on a clear, plastic base.

The Rebor Zombie T. rex (plain colouration) on the clear, plastic display base. Providing a base helps to stabilise the figure and prevent it from toppling. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The image (above) shows the Rebor Zombie T. rex (plain colouration) on our clear, plastic display base. When viewed from above, the base can be seen, but viewed from the side the base is difficult to spot and unobtrusive.

Displaying the Rebor Figure

For our experiment, we only tacked the feet of the dinosaur model to the base. However, stronger glue would provide a more permanent solution. If the plastic is a little thin, we recommend cutting out two pieces and doubling the thickness by sticking them together. This thicker base would give the model greater stability.

Rebor Zombie T. rex model on a transparent base.

The figure has amazing detail and is a welcome addition to any model collection. Can novel ways be found to help display the figure without the use of the transparent support stand? Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

This Rebor Zombie figure is available in two colour variants – plain and jungle. To read more about these two fantasy figures: Rebor Zombie Models Reviewed.

The lighting in our studio was adjusted to see if we could make the base in our photographs a little more visible. That’s the problem with a clear, plastic base, spotting it can be tricky!

Customising a Rebor figure by adding a base.

A close-up view of the Rebor model on the base. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows the display base more clearly. It also highlights the amazing details on the limbs and torso of the Rebor Zombie T. rex figure.

The Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models.

9 09, 2024

Everything Dinosaur’s Customer Service is Important for the Company’s Ongoing Success

By Mike|2024-09-10T10:14:09+01:00September 9th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

It has been a busy year for Everything Dinosaur. There are always lots of jobs to do. We appreciate that the business world is changing and new technologies such as artificial intelligence are having an increasing influence on commerce. However, we believe that people do business with people and whilst AI can be extremely helpful, we strive to maintain that personal touch. Interacting with our customers is very important to us, we pride ourselves on Everything Dinosaur’s customer service. We try to put customers at the heart of our business.

To this end, Mike has been participating in a training programme. The aim of the programme is to help businesses get to grips with dynamic and changing technologies. Having participated, we were approached by the training organisers – Digital Cheshire to make a video providing our feedback on the course. We are always happy to help support other organisations.

Everything’s Dinosaur Digital Cheshire Case Study

Video credit: Digital Cheshire

Everything Dinosaur’s Customer Service

In this short Digital Cheshire video (it last just under six minutes), we talk about our business and how the training has helped us. Exceptional customer service builds loyalty and encourages repeat business. In addition, satisfied customers share their positive experiences, attracting new clients and enhancing the brand’s reputation. For example, we have received thousands of customer reviews, and the company has won numerous customer service awards.

Everything Dinosaur has won the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for 2024.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Every day is a school day! There is always something new to learn and the business has benefited from the training offered by Digital Cheshire. Everything Dinosaur’s customer service is exceptionally important to our success. Looking after our customers is a core part of who we are. Thankfully, we have been able to learn more about new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. We are grateful that we have been able to participate in the training programme.”

There are some outtakes from the video, a sort of bloopers reel. We don’t always get everything right on the first take! We will endeavour to get this other video onto our blog as well.

The award-winning and customer friendly Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Toys.

About Mike

Rebor Prehistoric Animal Models at TetZooCon

A September Tadpole

Haolonggood Xenoceratops Models

Spectacular Dinosaur Models

The Educational Value of Dinosaur Soft Toys

Versatile Prehistoric Plush

Eryops megacephalus Illustrated

Authentic Everything Dinosaur

“The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs”

Additional Reading and an Overview of Formations

Authentic Everything Dinosaur

Using a Transparent Base with the Rebor Zombie T. rex

Displaying the Rebor Figure

Everything Dinosaur’s Customer Service